University Advice - Preparations

With results day slowly approaching for those who have finished their a levels, I thought it would only be right to share a post about things that I wish I had considered more when I was off to university for first year! Now going into my third and final year at university, I feel I know enough about the whole experience to share some advice. 

Be Open Minded

The thing that worried me the most about starting university was not being able to make friends. I'm sure it is a worry of most people going off to university, but you have to remember that everyone is in the same position. You've all left home for (probably) the first time, moving into a new city where you may not know anyone at all. The thought of all of these things are scary! But as soon as you've unpacked and met the people you'll be living with, you'll definitely be wondering why you ever thought of these things at all. A tip I'd give is to keep your door open. This will let your flatmates aware that you're open for conversation - being social is how you're going to make friends after all. 

Budget 

If you are receiving a loan, there is massive temptation to go shopping, but when you have rent to pay on halls or even on rented student accommodation, budgeting your finance is so important. Working out how much money you have spare after paying your rent, will help you steer away from money troubles whilst still being able to enjoy yourself. You could go as far as working out how much money you have weekly, to avoid overspending. Maybe think about opening a student bank account - different accounts come with different kinds of perks, free rail cards or bus passes that could be a massive help when travelling home after a semester ends! 

Cooking 

Cooking for yourself is a part of university life. Getting yourself a student cookbook with quick and cheap recipes to make or even watching your parents prepare and cook your meals before you leave, could be a big help if you're someone who doesn't cook a lot. Preparing a meal plan can also make cooking easier - you know what you're having and when you made it. Once you've got settled with the people you're living with, it could be worth cooking with another person, not only does this make cooking a meal cheaper, but will also bring you closer.

 Packing

Start packing little and often before you move into halls, this reduces the likelihood that something will be forgotten. Making a list of potential items that you want to take could also make sure that you get the chance to purchase all the bits you need. Packing things away as soon as you get them makes the whole packing process easier too. 

What piece of advice would you give someone who is off to university in September?

Amber X